Numerical Study of Confinement Effect Due to Axial Load on RC Columns Under Blast Loading

Abstract

The impact of blast loads on reinforced concrete (RC) structures and components has received significant attention from researchers and designers. Damage to building columns is particularly critical because explosions can cause these columns to fail, potentially leading to the progressive collapse of the entire structure and resulting in substantial casualties. A key factor in their performance under such conditions is the confinement effect, which is influenced by axial loads and the specifics of transverse reinforcement. This study examines how reinforced concrete columns behave under blast loading, focusing on how different axial loads and reinforcement configurations influence confinement effects. The LS-DYNA finite element software is used to simulate square reinforced concrete columns with varying reinforcement configurations and axial load levels under near-field blast conditions. The simulation of blast impacts is performed using the Load Blast Enhance (LBE) method, in accordance with UFC 3-340-02 standards. The study explores how variations in transverse reinforcement diameter, spacing, and axial load affect the behavior of columns during blast events, providing insights into their performance and potential protective strategies.